Regular cleaning and seasonal checks prevent leaks, damage, and unnecessary wear. If you need materials, see Apex’s ClassicBond EPDM kits. Quick Checklist Clear leaves and debris Inspect seams, vents, and flashings Check drainage and gutters Apply protective coating Plan snow removal Winter Maintenance Checklist for Your EPDM Roof 1. Clean the Roof First get rid of all the leaves & twigs & other debris that's accumulated on the surface, as this kind of buildup can actually cause all sorts of problems by blocking the gutters and outlets, which in turn causes water to start pooling. And then of course once it gets really cold, next thing you know you've got all that water just sitting there freezing in place, which is just asking for trouble with those EPDM membranes, it can make them crack or even lift, which is not good. After cleaning with brush you can optionally clean with water. Pro Tip: Use a soft-bristled brush and products designed for flat roofs. Avoid using hard brushes or metal tools for swiping the roof, this can damage the surface or create cracks. 2. Inspect for Damage Once you've cleaned the roof, take a good close look for any visible damage, a puncture, a little tear, or if any of the seams have come loose. Also make a point of giving a close eye to all the vents, skylights and drains, those are the areas most likely to let water in. If you spot any problems, get them sorted out before winter, you don't want water damage & other issues getting a toehold. Check these key areas: Around skylights and vents Near drains and seams At flashing joints and roof edges 3. Check the Flashings Take a close look at the flashings around the edges of the roof, where they meet other stuff, at upstands and penetrations. Flashings are like the roof's special defenders, they protect the vulnerable bits where the membrane butts up against other materials. Make sure they're all nice and securely fastened up and that the seals are tight. You don't want water just pouring in the first time it rains or snows heavily. If any of them need replacing, you might want to have a look at roofing trims & flashings. 4. Ensure Proper Drainage Drainage is super important for keeping your roof happy and healthy. Take a minute to check that all the gutters, outlets, and downpipes are clear of blockages. You don't want water to be standing around up there any more than you want to have to fix holes in the EPDM material when ice forms and it starts to split. If you need parts, see Apex’s roofing outlets collection. 5. Apply a Protective Coating A UV-resistant or weatherproof coating will go a long way in protecting your roof in the cold weather. It helps the membrane withstand cold and sunlight. This keeps it flexible and prolongs the system's life. Browse Primers & Sealants to choose a suitable option. This step is optional and only for older roofs as many of flat roofs should have 20+ year guarantee. If you are not sure, contact the local roofing service and ask for a checkup. Some companies often offer free checks for cracks and other issues. Pro Tip: Use a compatible primer/sealant before winter. This keeps EPDM flexible and helps it resist frost and UV damage. Check the Primers & Sealants range above for options. 6. Remove Snow Accumulation If you're in an area that gets slammed with snow, be aware of how quickly your roof is getting buried under it all throughout the winter season. Too much on top can put some serious pressure on that roof of yours. Get out there and clear the snow off as soon as possible, don't wait till it starts to sag under the weight and you end up with leaks when it all melts away in spring. Keep Your Roof Protected This Winter These easy steps will keep your EPDM roof in great nick all through the winter. By taking a bit of time to keep an eye on things and lend a hand, you can keep the damage at bay, and your roof will thank you by lasting longer and performing better. Need supplies? Explore Apex’s full Product Range or go straight to ClassicBond EPDM kits.
